Florida leaders react to Charlie Kirk assassination with calls for unity

FLA. — Florida's political leaders are responding to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed during a speaking event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.

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Gov. Ron DeSantis appeared on Fox News with Jesse Watters to reflect on the tragic events. He also wrote on X, "Charlie was a warrior for liberty, and his murder is a tragedy for our nation."

In Southwest Florida, Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson posted on Facebook praising Kirk for his resilience.

"In standing firm, he's shown millions that it's possible to speak boldly, live freely, and refuse to be silenced," Anderson said.

The assassination has also brought together leaders who didn't always agree with Kirk's positions. Rep. Maria Salazar, who represents Florida's 27th Congressional District, posted on X about the tragedy:

"We didn't agree on everything, but in America no one should ever be targeted for their beliefs," Salazar said.

The manhunt for the shooter continues as authorities work multiple active crime scenes in Utah. Kirk, 31, was the founder and CEO of Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization.

The shooting occurred during a question-and-answer session about gun violence and mass shootings. Kirk was speaking at the first stop of his "The American Comeback Tour" when a gunshot rang out from a rooftop. The shooter escaped amid chaos as students fled the Utah Valley University campus.

Federal, state and local authorities are searching for an unidentified shooter. as of 7:00 a.m.